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From the famed gold-sand stretches and sparkling waters to action-packed theme parks and world-class dining and entertainment, it’s little wonder the Gold Coast has long been a favourite for family escapes. The perfect place to create special memories, it’s almost impossible to run out of things to do and see – but some experiences are a cut above the rest. Here’s how to live life large in this sun-kissed city with the best family-friendly activities on the Gold Coast.
Experience iconic Gold Coast luxury (plus unlimited Dreamworld passes)
The Star Grand at The Star Gold Coast is a resort playground that has everything you need for an incredible family escape, including spacious twin rooms and a spectacular central pool. You’ll be a five-minute walk from the city’s premier shopping district, Pacific Fair, and a fifteen-minute walk from Kurrawa Beach, a patrolled stretch of sand that includes vibrant family areas.
The best part? For a limited time only, stays at The Star Grand are bundled with unlimited four-day passes to Dreamworld and SkyPoint Observation Deck, making this an incredible escape for families looking for a sun-soaked holiday with unbeatable value.
Enjoy adrenaline-fuelled days out at Dreamworld, Australia’s biggest theme park
Experience an injection of excitement and buzz at Queensland’s world-class theme parks, the biggest collection in the Southern Hemisphere. Forge new (thrilling) memories at Dreamworld – Australia’s biggest theme park has now opened the brand-new Rivertown precinct, with cutting-edge rides like the Jungle Rush, the world’s first inclined triple-switch rollercoaster. Visit after dark on select weekends to experience the Dreamworld Night Market, packed with food trucks, live music, rides and roaming cartoon characters for an evening of fun.
Hit the Gold Coast’s sun-kissed beaches
Boasting year-round sunshine and over 57 kilometres of coastline to explore, the Gold Coast was made for beach holidays. For little bathers and paddlers, throw down a towel at Rainbow Bay – a protected golden crescent of soft sand lapped by crystal-clear waters. Further north, Tallebudgera Beach is another eye-searingly blue estuary renowned for its calm waters, while lesser-known Echo Beach is an ideal place for stand-up paddleboarding with older kids and teens; alternatively, head to Burleigh Heads for a swim in her protected waters. What’s more, the burgeoning oceanfront cafe culture and undercover playground won’t disappoint beachgoers of all ages. And for families looking to hang ten, look no further than The Spit, Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta.
A huge range of restaurants keeps everyone happy
It’s no longer just the beach culture and glitzy nightlife the Gold Coast is known for. With a host of bespoke cafés, down-to-earth restaurants and boutique dining precincts popping up all over the place, the Goldie has fast become a gourmand’s playground, home to seriously good food. While reliable chains and hotel offerings remain key temptations, underestimated culinary venues stay relatively under the radar.
Offering a dish for every palate – from burgers to Mexican and sweet desserts – live music and boutique market stalls, Miami Marketta is a fun night out for all ages. Tommy’s Italian brings the energy of the Amalfi Coast to Currumbin’s stretch of the Pacific Parade; a dedicated bambini menu offers the requisite spaghetti, pizza and gelato. Kids will also love Southport Sharks’ large fish tank (with real sharks) and oversized play area, while adults can enjoy a drink at a selection of great bars.
Feel at home in self-contained apartment accommodation
A self-contained apartment is the perfect choice for enjoying a fun family holiday with the kids. Extra room gives everyone personal space, and the money you save self-catering can be reallocated for even more family-friendly activities on the Gold Coast.
If you long for a carefree escape in the heart of the action, mixed with a little luxury, Aria Apartments at Broadbeach is the place to stay. Located steps from The Star Gold Coast entertainment complex and Broadbeach Surf Life Saving Club, Aria Apartments offers fully equipped, self-contained residences with sweeping views of the ocean and Gold Coast hinterland. Young ones will be kept occupied all day at the resort pool, while at night, enjoy some family bonding with a flick in the private cinema.
Explore beyond the Gold Coast together
Trade golden sandy shores for an oasis of serene emerald landscapes as you recharge the batteries in the heavenly hinterland. Despite its proximity to the glamourous coastal strip, the Gold Coast Hinterland is Southeast Queensland’s best-kept secret, a natural playground of waterfalls, ancient national parks, fresh-water swimming holes and charming mountain villages diverse enough to entertain any type of traveller.
Enjoy a refreshing change of pace, sampling creamy local fudge in Mount Tamborine Village, feeding kangaroos by hand at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, spying glow worms and microbats at Natural Bridge in Springbrook National Park or sharing Cedar Creek Falls’ rock pool waters with fish and turtles.
Discover Gold Coast
Feature image: Dreamworld, Gold Coast.
